The species populations have declined in some parts of its range (including parts of India and in Nepal) due to siltation and habitat loss and modification. However, Xenentodon cancila is assessed as Least Concern as the scacle of population decline is not thought as yet sufficent to meet the criteria for a threatened category or even the Near Threatened category.

There is habitat degradation in some parts of its range in India due to siltation caused by deforestation, and habitat loss and modification due to the loss of wetlands, especially the infilling of ponds.